Hope for the Warriors is offering a free, online course for active-duty military members, their families and post 9-11 veterans to help manage stress in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

The third-year program is offered year-round, said Brianna Sampson, director of clinical services for Hope for the Warriors. But Sampson said the organization is offering an added one to help people during the COVID-19 crisis.

“We thought it was a good opportunity to add an extra class for those who are feeling extra stress due to this pandemic,” Sampson said. “A lot of people are now stuck at home and this is a great opportunity to provide help for veterans, service members and to family members.”

The online six-week program starts April 13 and is free and open to post 9-11 military families, veterans and service members, as well as caregivers and spouses.

Sampson said people can visit hopeforthewarriors.org and then click on the upper right “Apply for Services” button.

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“After people submit their application, they are contacted by one of our coordinators who will go through the information with them,” Sampson said. “You will get a manual in the mail and each week we will cover a different chapter in the manual. We use the Zoom platform. The courses are live and we will have a group setting. The course will teach you how to lower the effects of stress through mind and body techniques and through skill building exercises.”

Sampson said the program under normal circumstances has been well-received.

“We usually have had a waiting list,” she said. “Those who have completed the course do find it to be beneficial and they enjoy their time in the course. They also have developed new relationships.”

Hope for the Warriors is a nonprofit organization that serves veterans, service members and their families. It was founded in 2006 on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune.